16 Apr Pray for Boston
Posted at 04:36h
in
running
by admin
I had planned on an update tonight on Keegan’s transplant appointment and other family happenings, but right now, there is only one thing occupying my thoughts.
Boston.
I am struggling to sort out all my feelings, let alone put them in print at the moment. They are coming from every aspect of my life. As a runner. As a mom. As an American. As someone who loves the city of Boston and all the hope it has provided our family.
My mind constantly flashes back to four years ago today. Our apartment at the time was on the corner of Mass Ave and Boylston. The finish line of the Boston Marathon less than a quarter mile down the street. Gray, Keegan, and I literally stood right on that corner under the country flags to watch the elites come in on Patriots’ Day 2009. It could have been us.
Keegan and I in 2011 across the street exactly from today’s tragedy.
As a runner, Boston is the epitome of our sport. It is more than a marathon. For many, it is the culmination of a lifetime of pain and perseverance. Race day is a beautiful symphony of people pushing their own limits, honoring others, and coming together to rise above. As Katherine Switzer, the first woman to ever run the Boston Marathon, once said, “if you are losing faith in humanity, go out and watch a marathon.”
My heart is grieving tonight for so many reasons I have yet to sort through. First and foremost, I grieve for those lost and injured tonight, especially for the parents of the young boy among the casualties. For everyone who was present today and everyone who responded. For law enforcement working tirelessly to find answers and medical staff caring for all involved. For every runner who is safe and for every runner whose dreams and security in their sport were shattered today. May you each find healing and peace during this time.
Tonight as I put Keegan to bed, only one song came to mind. As he fell asleep, I cried but continued to sing. This has provided both of us comfort in times of need, and I hope it does for all in Boston tonight.
You who dwell in the shelter of the Lord
Who abide in His shadow for life
Say to the Lord, my refuge
My rock, in whom I trust
And He will raise you up on eagles’ wings
Bear you on the breath of dawn
Make you to shine like the sun
And hold you in the palm of His hand
For to His angels, he’s given a command
To guard you in all of your ways
Upon their hands, they will bear you up
Lest you dash your foot against a stone
And He will raise you up on eagles’ wings
Bear you on the breath of dawn
Make you to shine like the sun
And hold you in the palm of His hand
-On Eagles’ Wings
